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Hall of the Khans, Karl Devalis Personnel Quarters
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
15th October 3058

   â€œWhere is your Clan?”  Sellen Cage asked holding Karl Devalis down against the bed, Karl countered using the Elemental’s size and weight against her Sellen fell onto the bed and Karl slipped her grasp pinning her to the bed, both were naked and since their first meeting in the Hall of the Khans the two had spent six nights together.  For Clan warriors this was almost unheard of, both were trueborn warriors bred for combat in the Clans Iron Wombs, very rarely did Clansmen engage in long term romances and sex was just another activity, a release from regular happenings.  Neither the Ice Hellion Khan or the Nova Cat Galaxy Commander had made any indication of breaking this off, and so far no-one had said anything regarding their activities.

   â€œWhere it has always been, saKhan Ice Hellion” Karl said smiling, Sellen stopped putting up a fight and he slipped from her grasp lying on top of her locked in what seemed to be a never-ending embrace.  Two weeks ago Karl had been in a field base with the Khans preparing for the Nova Cat’s secret Exodus now he was in the Hall of the Khans, in bed, with the Ice Hellion Khan a Clan the Nova Cats were neither friend or enemy.

   Three hours and a bend/broken bed later the two lay on the stone floor of the quarters.  Karl quietly cursed the builders and designers for not including carpets in this ancient building, he had thought about putting some in however what was good for the Founder was good enough for the present and he would make do.  Karl had however installed a rug made from a slain Ghost Bear, during his early days as a warrior Karl had gained entrance to the Clawing Rite of Clan Ghost Bear.

   The Clawing Rite was a sacred ritual where warriors were abandoned in the frozen wastes with little more than light clothing, a spear and a survival pistol.  Their task was to survive the elements, track and kill a Ghost Bear with the spear.  Although he had been abandoned by his team early on Karl had not only survived the ordeal but also succeeded where many had failed and many more had perished, he also became the first outsider to slay a Ghost Bear much to the annoyance of many Ghost Bears.

   â€œSeriously Karl where are the Nova Cats, the ilKhan wants to know and he will find out one way or another” she warned.

     â€œAre you interrogating me?  Trying to find something ilKhan would want so the Ice Hellions have a bargaining chip?” Karl said playfully rolling over back onto Sellen. 

   â€œI would think you know me better than that pussy cat” the Elemental said equally playfully countering flipping him over again pinning Karl, the impact on the stone floor was barely cushioned by the rug.  “All I want to know is where the Nova Cats are and would they oppose me taking over the rest of Dagda barring their enclave?”

   â€œWould we…?”  Karl whispered looking into the distance thinking then turned back to Sellen “well that could be a very expensive proposition, saKhan Ice Hellion” he said smiling.

   â€œOkay, how many more times will I have to sleep with you?”  She asked from the look in her eyes Karl could tell she was joking, but both knew it would cost her more than that as they settled down for sleep on the floor, at least it wouldn’t break.
 
Khan Trials, Nova Cat Command
Nova Cat Occupied Territory
Tortuga Prime, Periphery
16th October 3058

   Three successful trials had put Santin West one place from Khanship, against him was Leon Rosse, a Star Colonel like West Rosse was a MechWarrior and an ardent Crusader.  If Rosse was victorious the Nova Cat Touman would strike the Inner Sphere, probably the Federated Suns the most powerful Successor State.  Not only would that shatter the Nova Cat Touman and endanger their civilian population, but their secret base would be compromised something Santin West could not and would not allow.

   A second Elemental emerged through the doorway of Santin’s quarters “Star Colonel, the Trial is ready to begin.”

   â€œUnderstood, I will be along presently” he said quietly not moving from his position.

   â€œAff, OvKhan” the elemental said stepping out of the room, Santin West moved slowly standing.  Turning he left the small room and walked down a short corridor through the doors and down a small ramp exiting the DropShip and across the open area where large amounts of warriors were gathered.  In the arena stood around fifty warriors inside the circle stood Leon Rosse dressed in a light Gray suit, Leon Rosse was tall for a MechWarrior making them almost the same height but he was also he gangly man with little muscle, the typical MechWarrior.

   Standing in front of Leon, Santin bowed slightly, “Honour” Leon said.

   â€œSeyla” Santin said Leon copied him and both men dropped into combat poses over the next ten minutes both punched, kicked and threw each other.  Neither man was ready to fall, despite their near equal height Santin was still stronger his genetically developed muscle gave him an advantage, unfortunately Leon was faster and both men had superb stamina.

   Another ten minutes past before Santin made a critical error allowing Leon to get him in a submission pose holding him down, Leon tried for almost a minute to get the pinned Elemental to give up however Santin had another idea, the only thing that sapped strength and stamina more than a submission move was actually holding the downed person.  After a minute of being in the dirt Santin used his superior strength to push against the ground forcing both men up, then in a fluid move he flipped them over and held down the MechWarrior after a minute in one position Leon had no response and with Santin’s bulk crushing him the fight was soon over soon after the Circle of Equals was brought to a close and Santin West was declared winner.

   In front of all the Warriors and Civilians present Khan Santin West is unveiled to the Nova Cats, now the Nova Cats had a new home and a new leader, it was time the Clan found its feet and strode into a brighter future.

Headquarters and Planning Room
Irece, Clan Smoke Jaguar Holding
Clan Occupation Zones, Inner Sphere
18th October 3058

   Smoke Jaguar Star Colonel Ayden Moon surveyed the compound that his Jaguars held, there were roughly four trinaries worth of troops on planet, roughly a Cluster of ground troops, arrayed alongside them were almost double the amount of Star Adder forces.  For the last three weeks the Star Adders had been making comments about the Smoke Jaguar forces and had been moving in Smoke Jaguar areas of the planet, as far as Ayden was concerned it was time for that to change.  “Order Star Captain Calvin Kotare to take his Nova into Star Adder territory and challenge their Stavag commander to a trial of possession for the BattleMech Factory.  Have Star Captain Rebecca, to similarly challenge the forces at the Spaceport.  I will led Trinary One against the Adder ground base, and with one strike we will rid this entire planet of Adders.”

   â€œA dangerous move, but a bold one.”  Star Commodore Sara Wimmer commander of the orbiting Smoke Jaguar WarShip, a Fredasa-class Corvette named Dark Mist, one of the smallest vessels in use by the Clans but still a WarShip it would defend the Jaguar ground forces from any space-borne predator “my WarShip stands ready to defend you from the Star Adder backlash however, it is only a corvette.”

   â€œThe Star Adders only have four WarShips in the Inner Sphere, if the others plan their attacks accordingly we should be able to overwhelm the Star Adders and push them from the Inner Sphere before they are able to react, this will be a great day for the Smoke Jaguars.”

   â€œAnd if we fail then we will be consigning the Smoke Jaguars to the long trek back to the Homeworlds.”  Sara said warning of the dangers of their failure to defeat the Star Adders.

   â€œWe will not fail then.”

   â€œSeyla!”  The Smoke Jaguar commanders chanted together.

Khan Santin West’s Command Outpost
Nova Cat Command
Tortuga Prime, Periphery
19th October 3058

   In the four days since the Trial, Khan Santin West had made a dozen decisions the first was to move his command post inside the Sacred Rite to the spaceport and his second was to order his Clan to make a full survey of the planet and the former capital city.  The rest of his decisions had been regarding the Nova Cats future path, first of all they would not be making Tortuga Prime their new capital the world was far too dry and arid to be a suitable staging world let alone a permanent settlement.

   Bringing together several of the Nova Cat Galaxy Commanders and Star Admiral Jan Jorgensson, commander of the Nova Cat Naval forces, this was the first time since his ascension to Khanship they had been together and now it was time to make some choices.  “Tortuga Prime is unsuitable for permanent colonisation by our civilian population, Khans Severn Lervoux and Lucian Carns chose the Dominion as our new home, however, the capital of the Dominion will not be our new capital planet.”  He noticed several strange looks from the Galaxy Commanders and from the Star Admiral present.  “I believe is that there is a world nearby that will be our new home, we must first find it.  Star Admiral, I want you to select five WarShips that we have on hand to make double jumps out with the six planetary we control.  Every system you enter a ground force team will be dispatched to any habitable planet with orders to make full surveys of possible habitation zones, Chi Provisional Galaxy will be assigned to your WarShips for ground survey and support” he said looking to Galaxy Commander Angelique West commander of the Galaxy, she nodded a slight disgusted look covered her face a scientific survey was hardly honourable work.  “Also if you find any unidentified space borne finds I want them fully recorded and investigated in case they can be added to our current forces, or in case they pose any threat to our position here.  Any active threats are to be dealt with accordingly, Mercenary or Pirate forces can be annihilated any force of the Federated Suns should be captured if possible as it is a possible intelligence asset on the nearest Inner Sphere state and the general state of the Inner Sphere.”  Star Admiral Jorgensson and Angelique West wrote down notes as he spoke and looked up after a moment then nodded, both women seemed to have no trouble with the orders.  Turning back to the others  “I want each of you to select a cluster that would be available to be transferred to another command I plan on forming.”

   â€œA new command?”  Star Colonel Jal Steiner asked, he was aide to Galaxy Commander Elianna Deleportis commander of Xi Provisional Galaxy, all eyes turned on the Star Colonel.

   â€œAff, Star Colonel, many of the current Nova Cat Front-Line Galaxies are near full strength.  I want to slim down these Galaxies and form at least one new Galaxy.  This will spread out our units but also make transportation of full Galaxies and internal Galaxy coordination easier.”  He noticed several warriors were unhappy about the idea of loosing troops and prestige that came with commanding more troops, however, most looked happy enough with the arrangement.

   â€œMy Khan, a question” Kelly Hardo commander of the Cat’s Sigma Galaxy stood up.

   â€œPlease Galaxy Commander”

   â€œMy Khan, what are our ground forces to do?  At present we have almost eight Galaxies worth of troops on six worlds, even with your proposed plans we are still going to be crammed together and with no combat.  Tempers may become frayed and our combat edge could suffer.”  She said Santin West had looked at this as well, nearby there was the Federated Suns, Taurian Concordat and the Outworlds Alliance as well as dozens of independent worlds however he did not want to attack any of these targets, as it would tip other factions of the Nova Cat presence before the Clan was secure and ready.

   â€œGalaxy Commander Hardo, I fully agree with you that an isolation stance would turn the Nova Cat Clan into nothing but a glorified version of the Blood Spirit Clan.  I will not allow that to happen.  Once we have re-organised our Clan I will rotate more units back to the Homeworlds to support Delta Galaxy and further our position there, at least on a temporary basis until we have secured our position here.  Also I want you all to select targets which we can strike, no underhand tactics, however I want nothing that can be traced back here.”

   â€œHow far can we go?” Galaxy Commander Carl Lenardon, commander of Omicron Galaxy asked.

   â€œPreferably the periphery regions, and areas closer to Clan space however if you can draw up further plans I will listen carefully.  Also be mindful of your visions they have guided us this far and shall continue to do so.”  Santin said with that he stood up and left the room leaving his Galaxy Commander’s with a new task each moved out slowly.

Plains of Death, Trial of Position
Nova Cat Command Base
Tortuga Prime, Periphery
22nd October 3058

   Following several days worth of discussion and after several trials had been fought it was decided that four clusters would be transferred to the new command which would be known as Tau Galaxy.  Now all that was required was a commander the Star Colonels of each Cluster and other selected Star Colonels were offered the chance to participate in Trials of Position for command of this new Galaxy.

   After several trials it came down to Star Colonel Jal Steiner and Star Colonel Ajax Drummond in a Trial of Position, Jal’s forty-five ton Shadow Cat against Ajax’s fifty Huntsman.  The pirates had called this area the Plains of Death because pirate Lords consigned mutineers and their enemies to death by marooning them in the dunes with no water, food or shelter.

   The two Nova Cat Star Colonels approached the area from opposite sides inside their Mech’s, Jal’s Shadow Cat was faster, more manoeuvrable and harder to hit than the Huntsman due to its lower sense of gravity.  However, Ajax’s Mech was more heavily armoured and carried more weapons.  “Star Colonel Ajax Drummond, I Jal Steiner challenge you for command of Tau Galaxy, this Trial is a solemn matter may no other interfere.”

   â€œStar Colonel Jal Steiner, I Ajax Drummond accept your challenge, Seyla” Ajax said in reply, short and simple.

   â€œSeyla” Jal said both warriors triggered their long range firepower Steiner fired two Extended-Range Large Lasers while Ajax returned fire with its light LB-autocannon and ten-tube Long Range Missile (LRMs) rack.  The two lasers of the Shadow Cat were far more accurate than the Huntsman’s weapons at range and so the heavier Mech took more damage.

   With their initial assaults over the two warriors moved, Jal accelerated his Shadow Cat to the left and into the dunes while Ajax Drummond took his Huntsman right over more solid ground.  After several hundred metres of travel both warriors ignited their Mech’s Jump Jets launching both medium OmniMechs into the air.  Jal Steiner continued his assault firing one of the Shadow Cat’s Large Lasers in mid-air causing more damage to the Huntsman however Drummond held his fire, upon landing the Drummond let loose his Huntsman’s full fury firing both the Mech’s Large Pulse Lasers, the LB-autocannon and the LRMs.  The LRMs went wildly wide however both pulse lasers and the autocannon struck home, Drummond focused his attack on the Shadow Cat’s left leg, that much damaged in one hit blew out the Shadow Cat’s left knee actuator dropping the Shadow Cat off its legs sprawling the lighter Mech over the ground.  Drummond savoured his impending victory by turning his Mech slowly, Jal Steiner rolled his Mech over and with his cockpit facing straight into the sky the downed Star Colonel fired both his Large Lasers, whether it was a reflex shot or a simple lucky shot one of the Lasers struck the Huntsman’s head.  Although it was not enough to decapitate the Mech it was enough to breach the cockpit either destroying the controls or injuring the pilot.  The Huntsman suddenly lost all sense of balance and fell to the ground Jal struggled with his Mech brining it back to its feet, seeing the Huntsman was down and not moving with damage to its Head Jal held his fire he did not want to kill the Nova Cat warrior stepping slightly closer to gain a better look, that pause was all Ajax Drummond was waiting for triggering all his Huntsman’s weapons the pulse lasers, autocannon and missile fire breached the Shadow Cat’s torso armour pulping the stabilizing gyro taking the Mech out of the fight permanently.  Sitting in his command chair Jal listened as Khan Santin West congratulated Ajax Drummond on his victory and his command of Tau Galaxy, it had been an underhand tactic that had been used to win but Jal decided he would not challenge the victory, it was not his day.

   Hours later Star Colonel Jal Steiner sat around the flames of the camp fire, he wondered why his Clan had come here to this barren world.  Of course they were following a vision but so far he had seen nothing on this world to warrant the Clan’s warriors missing out on the Invasion of the Inner Sphere.  “You look trouble Star Colonel, Quiaff?” a deep voice said, Jal recognised the voice but remained focused on the flame.

   â€œAff, I wonder why we are here.  On this world, in this former pirate kingdom, we should be out there conquering the Inner Sphere like our other brethren.”

   â€œI have wondered this also” the man said sitting down opposite Jal “You fought well today and were unfortunate not to win” it was Khan Santin West.

   â€œMy Khan, I meant no disrespect, it was only a question.”

   â€œAff, I have asked this question also, many times I have wondered why the Khans chose to come here, to these six little insignificant worlds.  The answer still is a mystery to me, however that is not why I came here tonight.”

   â€œOf course, how may I serve my Khan?”  Jal Steiner said his eyes were still drawn to the flames but he was now paying far more attention on Khan West as well.

   â€œI plan on sending Sigma and Xi Galaxies back to the Homeworlds, you are assigned to Xi, Quiaff?”

   â€œAff, but why tell me, I am but a Star Colonel.”  He said thinking back to the Trial once more, the chance to command a Galaxy did not come around a lot, Jal silently wondered if he would ever receive such a chance again.

   â€œAff, but even a Star Colonel can serve his Clan and his Khan Quiaff?” Jal Steiner nodded “there is a MechWarrior named Zane on this very world, he is a member of the Carns bloodline.  I want you to be his sponsor in his Trial of Bloodright.  And I would like you to pass this letter to Galaxy Commander Karl Devalis, the commander of Delta Galaxy.”  He said holding out a letter just above the flames Jal looked at the letter for a moment held in his Khan’s outstretched hand, it was a wonder the document didn’t burst into flame, reaching out he took the letter.  As he took the letter he could feel the fire on his hand, the Khan did not let go immediately “Karl Devalis is the only man who you are to give this letter to, Quiaff?”  He said the flames licking both men’s hands, the envelope remained curiously untouched.

   â€œAff” Jal said regarding the letter with slightly more reverence as he placed it into his jacket pocket “I will guard this with my life, and this MechWarrior Zane will retain the Carns Bloodname for Clan Nova Cat’s stewardship.”

   â€œI am sure you will, now I leave you to your meditation.”

   â€œBlessed Path My Khan.”  Jal said quietly, the Khan did not speak again as he withdrew from the fire.

Smoke Jaguar Battle Line
Irece, Clan Star Adder Territory
Clan Occupation Zones, Inner Sphere
3rd November 3058

   The Smoke Jaguars had attacked the day before and so far the Star Adders had lost the ruined BattleMech Factory, the abandoned Land-Air-Mech (LAM) plant and the Spaceport however the Jaguars had been late assaulting the Star Adder main base and so the Adders had reinforced their position, now the two forces were of almost equal strength and in space a Star Adder WarShip was en route.  “We must hold for an additional day, the Black Adder has been destroyed by the Smoke Jaguars and the Exodus Ranger is en route but she will not arrive until tomorrow.” Star Colonel Andrea Guidice the Adder Commander said to her surviving two Star Captains.

   â€œWe will try Star Colonel, however, the Smoke Jaguars have planned this for quite a while, we are outgunned and they have better support than us.”  Star Captain Karen said

   â€œHave all OmniMechs outfitted with laser weaponry only, and have ammo reserved for conventional vehicles, aerospace fighters and BattleMechs.”  Andrea said “we hold better position than the Smoke Jaguars and we hold less territory so we can concentrate our forces better.  These Jaguars have been over bold with their assaults striking too soon, before they have sufficient forces.  If we hold them and frustrate them we can beat them.”  She said trying to improve their moral, they had been on the losing side for too long and Adder warriors did not like defensive work but it was the hand they had been dealt and that was all they could do.

Raider’s Roost
Tortuga Prime
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
5th November 3058

   The Nova Cat civilians had begun moving off Tortuga and the leaders had broadcast an invitation to all citizens of Tortuga come to the central square of Tortuga for an address by the Nova Cat Khan.  Up on a podium the Nova Cat Khan, Santin West was in the middle of a speech regarding their way forward “…the Tortuga Fusiliers are dead, the other pirates of the Periphery are no threat, the marauders of the Inner Sphere are not a threat.  We control each system of the former Tortuga Dominions and wish to build on it, we have found four additional systems that can support life and plan on moving our civilians there instead of trying to eke out a living on this barren world.  I would like to invite you to come and live with us, and with us build a world that we proudly call our capital…”  West was saying just as someone broke in.

   â€œSo we will swap being slaves to the Pirates to being slaves of Clan test-tube babies no thanks!”  There was a quiet laughter from the gathered crowd.  Several of the Nova Cats armoured Elemental Warriors moved around the crowd their weapons raised, the Nova Cat warriors did not like having the Eugenitics program insulted they way it just had been.

   â€œHold your position” Santin said into the comm. frequency, the Elementals backed off but their weapons were still raised, still ready.  “You will not be slaves” West said “as far as I am concerned you can remain here on this barren rock and try to live in freedom or you can come to New Barcella.  We will maintain a military force on this planet but Raider’s Roost will not be occupied, if you want to stay away from us you can.  But if you come to New Barcella you will be treated as equals with our own civilians and you will be able to move beyond this squalor you call home.”

   â€œWhat will we do?  Clean your houses while you go off to fight, just as the pirates did.”  Another person from the crowd asked.

   â€œIf you want you can attempt to join the Nova Cat military Touman, you will have to prove your worth but we will be willing to accept the worthy candidates.  Others can do what they want, plant crops, build housing, weapons or heavy equipment, open shops.  It will be up to you, as long as you do not interfere with the operations of the Nova Cat Touman or endanger our civilians then we will not interfere with you.  However, if you endanger us you will be treated accordingly.”  He warned “I leave it up to you, in twenty hours time not a single Nova Cat civilian will remain, the choice is in your hands.”  Khan West said leaving the podium, there was general chatter from the crowd as the Nova Cat Khan and his Elementals left the area.  Deeper in the city BattleMechs and Vehicles were moving out as well, as the Nova Cats began a general withdrawal from Tortuga.

Smoke Jaguar Hall
Strana Mechty, Hall of the Khans
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
11th November 3058

   ilKhan Lincoln Osis looked at his saKhan, Brandon Howell “two days ago the Nova Cats took our supply base at Transfer Facility Four, just outside the Inner Sphere Occupation Zone.  They overran our garrison force, captured three DropShips, a JumpShip and six warehouses of supplies destined for the Inner Sphere.”  He said pacing back and fourth “and you thought they were no threat to our plans?”

   â€œA mistake, what retribution shall we take?”

   â€œSomething simple…” the ilKhan said quietly “but something clear and to the heart.”  He said thinking closer to home “like the BattleMech factory on Barcella, we will take it from the Nova Cats, that factory is their primary factory of front-line OmniMech Factory in the Homeworlds.”  Wherever the Nova Cats had gone they could not afford such a loss and their front-line forces would be crippled by loosing such a factory.

   â€œWe have no front-line Clusters in the Homeworlds, the only units in fighting shape are your Bodyguard and the Jaguar’s Den Command Trinary, my unit, neither is large enough to take a primary factory and I would not like to rely on Second-Line forces from Huntress.”  Secretly the Smoke Jaguars had replaced most of the Second-Line forces on Huntress with captured Inner Sphere Mech, some had Clan weapons but mostly the warriors were old and inferior to any Front-Line MechWarrior or Elemental, they were piloting inferior Mechs making them totally unreliable in anything but defence, perhaps even that.

   â€œThe Jaguar’s Rage is in the Homeworlds isn’t it?”  Osis said mentioning the Texas-class Battleship, the Clan’s flagship, the saKhan nodded the vessel was orbiting Huntress receiving supplies “good I believe the Anna Rosse, the Nova Cats precious York-class Destroyer, and the True Vision, their flagship Congress-class Frigate, are both still in the Homeworlds.  Send a message to Galaxy Commander Karl Devalis and inform him that in six days time the Jaguar’s Rage will challenge the Anna Rosse and the True Vision to a Trial of Possession for the Barcella OmniMech factory.  If no-one is there waiting for them the factory will be ours by default.”  He said confident that the Smoke Jaguar navy crew could defeat their Nova Cat kin despite the Nova Cat’s inherent naval skill, which rivalled the Snow Ravens.

Near Orbit
Barcella System, Clan Space
Clan Homeworlds, Kerensky Cluster
14th November 3058

   The Jaguar’s Rage moved through the New Barcella system the Texas-class Battleship was one of the biggest vessels available weighing in at just over one-and-a half million tons the vessel was the largest of all Clan Smoke Jaguar deadly in all situations just like the Clan and the animal it was named for.  Ahead hung the two Nova Cat WarShips the Anna Rosse, a York-class Destroyer/Carrier, and the True Vision, a Congress-class Frigate and laughingly the vessel the Nova Cat Navy called their Flagship.  The Jaguar’s Rage weighed more than both vessels put together.  As the Nova Cat vessels closed four DropShips and sixty fighters launched from the capital ships in retaliation the Jaguar’s Rage launched her own six DropShips and forty fighters it would be a tough fight between the support craft but the superior size of the Jaguar’s Rage should prevail in the battle.

   The Anna Rosse came at the Jaguar’s Rage travelling at near flank speed her fighters and DropShips close the ship closing head on presenting the smallest possible target for the Jaguar’s Rage’s gunners.  The Texas’ however needed only a small target for her primary armament to cause damage, the four Heavy Naval PPCs mounted in the Jaguar’s Rage’s bow lashed out first with three striking the front armour of the destroyer but the Anna Rosse continued to close firing Medium Naval PPCs and Lasers causing light damage.  The True Vision was completely out of sight uninvolved in the battle leaving the Anna Rosse to face a vessel twice her size, the Jaguar’s Rage crew became fixated on the rapidly closing York-class Destroyer/Carrier forgetting about the Congress.

   The Killer Whale Capital Anti-ship Missiles of the Jaguar’s Rage lashed out one struck a Nova Cat DropShip and the vessel exploded into flame killing all hands aboard in an instant, that was generally what happened when a DropShip attacked an enemy WarShip, the capital weapons on board a WarShip were no use against an aerospace fighter however against DropShips they were devastating.  The Anna Rosse and her fighters continued forward the Jaguar’s Rage’s own fighters and DropShips charged forward in an attempt to break-up the Nova Cat formations however the Nova Cat’s advantage in numbers and the Anna Rosse’s tightly packed anti-aerospace fighter guns took down many Smoke Jaguar fighters before one Nova Cat fighter could be destroyed significantly tipping the balance in the Nova Cat favour, if the WarShips could survive long enough for the fighters to take out the Smoke Jaguar auxiliary craft then the Nova Cat fighters could win the battle as the Jaguar’s Rage lacked significant anti-fighter weapons and was very vulnerable to fighter attacks.

   As the Texas charged its Heavy Naval PPC’s once more the Anna Rosse banked sharply to port immediately the guns along the York’s sides opened up putting a broadside of Heavy Autocannon and Lasers into the front of the Jaguar’s Rage ruining the Battleship’s forward armour, the Jaguar’s Rage’s own forward Naval PPCs now charged ripped into the Anna Rosse’s starboard flank destroying armour and two naval laser batteries.  The Jaguar’s Rage followed the PPC assault up with Naval Missiles and as the vessel turned pitting broadside against broadside the Jaguar’s Rage unleashed a full barrage of twelve class-55 Naval Lasers over half slammed into the York’s side armour.  The Anna Rosse’s armour crumpled under the onslaught and almost immediately there were internal explosions inside the Anna Rosse as systems aboard the vessel began to fail.

   The Nova Cat crew aboard the Anna Rosse fired again once more before the magazines buried deep inside the vessel cooked off completely and exploded ripping through the destroyer blowing the once proud vessel to pieces.  There was a cheer aboard the Jaguar’s Rage as the vessel exploded they had defeated the Nova Cats now all they had to do was destroy some fighters and this battle was over.  The cheer was short-lived however as the True Vision opened fire with its own barrage of Naval Autocannon and Missile fire slamming into the Jaguar’s Rage‘s rear armour and engines.

   Mounting heavier and more numerous Autocannons than a standard Congress the True Vision supported by the Anna Rosse’s surviving fighters and the surviving Nova Cat DropShips had taken care of the remaining Smoke Jaguar fighters and now together they attacked the Jaguar’s Rage.  The True Vision’s fire ripped into the Jaguar’s Rage destroying Naval lasers and causing hull breaches however the mighty Battleship refused to give up absorbing the damage with its thick armour.  Now the only chance of victory the Smoke Jaguar crew had was to destroy the True Vision before the Nova Cat fighters and DropShips began causing heavy damage.  As the mighty Texas turned the crew returned fire on the True Vision with its Heavy Naval PPCs, missiles and lasers causing damage across the Congress, the Jaguar’s Rage’s gunners were unable to concentrate their fire, although damaged the True Vision was still fully operational and it seemed that the Nova Cat Congress mounted heavier armour on top of the weapon modifications, perhaps it was not such an insignificant threat.

   Surviving the onslaught from the Texas the Nova Cat frigate had given a new lease of life continued to close, with the Jaguar’s Rage turning the True Vision took the risk of crossing the Jaguar’s Rage’s bow.  The Jaguar’s Rage crew attempted to hit the Congress however all they did was hit empty space and one of the Nova Cat DropShip, sending the crew spiralling to their deaths.  The True Vision opened fire hitting the Battleship’s forward armour where the Anna Rosse had already caused so much damage, heavy Autocannon and capital missiles slammed into the Texas‘ bow.  Suddenly without warning Jaguar’s Rage’s forward armour failed as two Killer Whale Capital Missiles fired from the True Vision’s forward launchers slammed into Texas’ forward facing reinforced Ferro-glass view ports.  The first missile damaged the Battleship’s forward armour, the second missile went straight through the ports entering the innards of the mighty vessel.  Travelling deep inside the Jaguar’s Rage the missile exploded setting off the Battleship’s own ammunition which ripped through the massive vessel tarring it apart, two nearby DropShips were caught in the explosion and destroyed by the debris.

   With the Jaguar’s Rage destroyed the remaining fighters and DropShips were swiftly taken by the Nova Cats as Isorla, spoils of battle.  On the ground the BattleMech factory was safe and secure in Nova Cat hands and on Strana Mechty ilKhan Lincoln Osis was not the happiest Clan warrior alive as he was given news of yet another defeat his forces had suffered at Nova Cat hands.

Ioto Galactic Enterprises and Bowie Industries
Port Sydney Shipyards, Alarion
Alarion Province, Lyran Alliance
16th November 3058

   The Alarion shipyards have been around since the era of the First Star League, during its height the shipyards could produce six WarShips at once and produce various other DropShips, fighters and JumpShips.  During the Succession Wars this capacity had diminished to only a couple of JumpShip lines with the occasional DropShip and fighter line being added with no more WarShips for centuries.  During the Lyran alliance with the Federated Suns Prince Hanse Davion had concentrated on upgrading the Galax, New Syrtis and Kathil shipyards in the Federated Suns slowing the development of the Lyran WarShip Program.  Luckily Archon-Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, during his short rein, had diverted funding to Alarion just before the Lyran Secession and now the first WarShip the Fox-class LAS Katrina Steiner was nearing completion as was a second shipyard construction line.  Sitting in the gravity-deck of the Corporate Headquarters for Ioto Galactic Enterprises, primary fundraiser and owner of the Alarion facility, Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood, Head of the LAAF Admiralty, looked out at the WarShip under construction.  Soon the vessel known as the Katrina Steiner would be her command, behind the Admiral stood Duke Anatoly Serfass, Noble leader of Alarion and a major fundraiser of the refurbishment of the Shipyards, he stood near the complementary drinks bar.

   From the side door Duke Clarence Vanderzham, owner of Bowie Industries, and Seamus Zuiderwyk, CEO of Ioto Galactic Enterprises, entered with two aides.  Both Anatoly Serfass and Lyn Hood both turned to greet them “What is going on gentleman?  Khan Phelan Kell of Clan Wolf (in-Exile) was willing to give me a tour of his command ship, the Werewolf, a McKenna-class Battleship.  That would have given us a great insight into Clan WarShip construction and operation, instead I am here looking at a vessel that is still not complete.”

   â€œI understand your frustration, Fleet Admiral however, we have discovered something rather exciting that we think could turn the Lyran WarShip Program on its head.”  Duke Clarence Vanderzham said smiling as he moved to the drinks bar, he was quite youthful for the CEO of one of the Alliance’s biggest and most profitable enterprises.

   â€œFleet Admiral Hood, what do you think the Archon would say if we could give her two fully operational seven hundred-and-fifty thousand ton Heavy Cruisers in two years?”  Seamus Zuiderwyk said walking over to the windows leaning on the window frame.  He had a right to be pleased with himself, if they could deliver on this promise then they would be giving the Alliance two WarShips that were three times the size of the Fox-class a WarShip a vessel worthy of the title of Lyran Alliance Flagship.

   â€œI would say that you have been drinking Mr Zuiderwyk.” Lyn said smelling the glass in front of her, the alcohol was not that strong, “it will take us at least six years to complete one Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser and in the meantime we will have two perhaps three Foxes.  The Lyran Alliance has not the money or the resources to begin constructing another WarShip class, the design costs would cost billions alone, it’s something we can not afford.”  Lyn said she left out the fact that the Lyran Alliance military budget was mainly concentrated on upgrading ground forces and the defences alone the Clan borders not on constructing WarShips which could cost as much as a whole planets gross yearly profit.

   â€œThe cost of designing the new vessel will cost you nothing.  All it would cost is the upgrading of another shipyard and the cost of weapons and labour.  The labour I am sure we could find on Alarion, with the Duke‘s support.”  Clarence Vanderzham said taking a drink over to the planetary duke, the fleet admiral and the other CEO.

   â€œAlarion would happily support such a venture” the Duke said having the system here was a boon for his people but he had to ask “How can you make such a promise?” Duke Anatoly Serfass asked “your companies have not nearly enough money to spend on research or construction of a base hull let alone two.”

   â€œAh, but Duke you forget the planetary asteroid belt hides much of the rest of the system.  Beyond the belt there are four planets in this system.”  Seamus Zuiderwyk said “eight days ago we were looking at records damaged during the Succession Wars and we found an interesting file and sent out a DropShip to investigate the claim.  We thought we might find some resources or information instead we found something far more exciting.”  He said pressing a button a large plasma screen lowered out of the roof the screen brought up two long thin vessels being moved by several smaller Tug-class DropShips. “we found these around the last planet the asteroids and radiation had masked their presence for centuries.  They have no weapons and some structural damage from meteor hits and age, however with a little work we can have them fully operational once more.  We even have full schematically data on the class in our computers found along with their approximate location.”  He said as the screen changed to a breakdown of each vessel’s basic performance statistics and armament.

   â€œAll we need is funding and a go-ahead to continue.” Clarence Vanderzham said, Lyn Hood looked to Serfass who nodded his support then turned back to the men.

   â€œI will need to talk to the Archon.”  the Fleet Admiral said, after six hours of conversation with the Archon and several other advisers she returned “please proceed as soon as possible gentleman.  The Archon is very pleased at your initiative at looking for the ships and said that both your companies will be well rewarded once they are in service.  Only one question what are their names and the class name so she can broadcast the find the nation?”

   â€œThe vessels are known as the Athens and the Cairo, they are the last examples of the Hyperion Heavy Cruiser-class an escort vessel of the great Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser.  They served the Lyran Commonwealth throughout the Star League-era.”

   â€œWell hopefully the Athens and Cairo will soon escort the Mjolnir-class into battle and will be the standard bearers of the Lyran Navy into the next century.”  Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood said raising her glass briefly toasting the others in the room.  The presence of these craft would significantly boost the power of the Lyran WarShip fleet.
 
Hall of the Khans, Nova Cat Hall
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space, Clan Homeworlds
18th November 3058

   Sitting behind his desk Karl Devalis looked at Star Colonel Jal Steiner and the document in front of him, still unopened.  “Why are you here with this and not one of the two Galaxy Commanders that are on planet with this information?”

   â€œThe Khan gave me this, he asked me to give you it once we arrived in the Homeworlds, it is unopened and now I will travel with MechWarrior Zane to the Carns Bloodname Trial on Tranquil.”  He said looking to the seated Galaxy Commander.

   â€œThe Khan?”  He asked the Nova Cat WarShips had maintained communication silence on their approach to the Clan Homeworlds.

   â€œKhan Santin West, Galaxy Commander.”

   â€œKhan Santin West…very good Star Colonel, dismissed” Karl said quietly a small smile crossed his lips, Jal was unsure if he was acknowledging what the Jal Steiner had said or giving Santin West his congratulations from afar.  Jal Steiner turned to leave and motioned for the doors “and Star Colonel wish MechWarrior Zane my best and inform him that I expect him to return victorious.”  Steiner nodded and left the room.  Karl reached forward to the sealed envelope and opened it, from the inside Karl removed an envelope and two matching insignia Karl gasped as he read the new Khan‘s orders.

   A standard hour later he sent a message to the Khans of Clans Diamond Shark and Snow Raven, both Clans assistance would be needed for this plan to succeed.  A few hours later Karl moved from the Nova Cat’s Hall and headed for the Diamond Shark’s Hall, there he met up with both Khan Barbara Sennet, Clan Diamond Shark, and Khan Lynn McKenna, Clan Snow raven.  “Galaxy Commander, how can we assist the Nova Cats at this time?” Barbara Sennet said as he entered then she noticed his new insignia “my apologies saKhan Devalis, how we assist?”  She asked indicating to the seats Karl sat down as did the two Khans.

   â€œYour Clans control the Samarkand Naval Brian Cache located off Point Alpha Six in the Delios system the Nova Cats require access to the vessels within it.”  Karl said getting straight to the point both Khans exchanged looks, rarely did the Clans activate more of their stored WarShips, unless they had a major operation planned.

   â€œsaKhan Devalis, why do the Nova Cats require another WarShip or several WarShips?”  Lynn McKenna asked, the Snow Ravens controlled a sizable fleet of active WarShips and liked to keep tabs on the other Clans naval forces, and since the Nova Cats already had a sizable navy she was obviously worried at the Nova Cats activating more naval forces.

   â€œRecently the Anna Rosse was destroyed and the True Vision, our flagship, was crippled over Barcella by Clan Smoke Jaguar‘ Jaguar’s Rage.  We have decided to renovate several SLDF-era vessels and create a new class of WarShip that will act as the Nova Cat’s new flagship and command vessels for future operations.”

   â€œAn expensive prospect saKhan, how does the Nova Cats plan to do this?  Your Clan controls no Shipyards.”  Lynn McKenna said, traditionally the Nova Cats traded with the Snow Ravens or the Diamond Sharks for assistance in any major retrofit operation.

   â€œOur Clan has obtained new resources in the last few months, information will be forthcoming when we know exactly what we have.”  Karl said keeping his answers guarded, so far the Nova Cats had told no-one of their new home, not even their allies knew of the Nova Cat’s Den.  “On the table I place these WarShips in trade, how you deploy them up is up to you, in exchange we want three Avatar-class Cruisers.”  He said placing a computer pad on the table Khan Barbara Sennet reached out and took the pad and began looking over the information.

   â€œInteresting you are willing to exchange four transport/merchant vessels and two destroyers for three cruisers, a very militaristic approach, what are the Nova Cats up to?”

   â€œAll will be revealed soon, Khan Santin West will be returning to the Homeworlds in approximately eight weeks, he will explain all then.”  Karl promised, in his order Khan West had said he would return to the Homeworlds but not when, all Karl was interested in was securing the three Cruisers.

   Barbara Sennet looked to Lynn McKenna “the possession of another two Carracks and another Merchant would be helpful to our trade, the Snow Ravens could take the third Carrack and both Lola-III destroyers increasing your own trade fleet and your WarShip forces.”  The Diamond Shark Khan said, it was obvious from her tone that a trade was definitely on the cards.

   â€œI would agree with that, and what of the Colossus DropShips?  The more interesting side of the deal.”  The Snow Raven Khan said, the Colossus were ancient and not in use by any Clan, as far as either Clan was aware none had survived to see the Exodus, the Nova Cats certainly had found some new resources.

   â€œThe depending on their condition I believe I can convince the Goliath Scorpions to purchase both vessels they are always interested in relics of the Star League, split the proceeds fifty-fifty.”  Barbara said, Lynn nodded Karl who had remained silent the decided to speak.

   â€œSo we have a deal?”  He asked at the system’s jump point the Nova Cat WarShips were waiting if necessary the Nova Cats were willing to fight a trial over the vessels.

   â€œAye, saKhan Devalis we have a deal, have your people deliver these WarShips to the Cache and they can take possession of the three cruisers.”  Barbara said standing Lynn McKenna and Karl both followed suit, with a slight nod Karl left the room.  “What are the Cats up to?”

   â€œUnknown, up until recently they have had only a single Galaxy based in the Homeworlds with the Nova Cats consolidating their forces in only a few positions.  However, I have reports of at least two more Galaxies have arrived back in the Homeworlds with the Nova Cat trade fleet, it appears they have secured their new home and decided to return in strength, from what we can tell none of their forces appear battle damaged.”  Lynn said.

   â€œPerhaps they have colonised more worlds, like they did during the Golden Century” Barbara suggested, during that however the Nova Cats had worked closely with the Snow Ravens and the Diamond Sharks this time neither had been consulted on any colonisation efforts “Where is this new home?” Barbara asked.

   â€œUnknown, reports we received suggested they were moving through the Draconis Combine Periphery and they hit several Smoke Jaguar positions costing the Jaguars heavily.  Which is why the Smoke Jaguars attacked and destroyed the Nova Cat vessels over Barcella.”

   â€œThe Nova Cats have always had mystical leanings and have always taken strange paths, however they have always been strong allies when they have been needed in peace or war, I will support them.”  The Diamond Shark Khan said, the Snow Raven Khan remained silent she did not have such faith in the Nova Cats but for now they were little threat to her Clan.

Star Adder Hall
Hall of the Khans, Strana Mechty
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
16th December 3058 (the Same time)

   Khan Cassius N’Buta sat in his small but very function office, he too was looking at the situation in the Inner Sphere however across from him was not another Star Adder warrior, instead Khan Thomas Perez of the newest Clan, the Stone Rhinos, sat opposite the Star Adder Khan.  “Khan Perez, I have been impressed with how your Clan has worked over the last seven months, you have struck at targets you Clan can succeed in taking and have held what you have fought for.  However, this cannot continue, the grace period will be over in five months and then the wrath of the entire Smoke Jaguar Clan will be upon you.”  The Star Adder Khan said Perez remained completely neutral, the Jaguars were several times larger than the Stone Rhinos a single Galaxy of Jaguars supported by WarShips should be more than sufficient for the task of the Stone Rhino destruction.

   â€œIf the Smoke Jaguars come for us they will pay with ten lives for every Stone Rhino they kill.”  Thomas said Cassius smiled, this man was filled with rage and correctly directed they could cause the ilKhan more trouble than he’d wish to count.

   â€œKhan Perez, Thomas, I would like to make you an offer that will change your Clan’s future and bring the Smoke Jaguars to their knees.”

   â€œPerfect for a deathblow strike.”  Thomas said, his eyes sparkled with the idea of the Smoke Jaguars end.  “So what is you idea, Cassius?”  Thomas asked using the same familiarity as the Star Adder Khan.

   â€œRecently my Clan has struck at several of the Smoke Jaguar’s Inner Sphere holdings however the Star Adders cannot continue to make these strikes alone.  I would like to make you an offer regarding joint operations against the Smoke Jaguars.”

   â€œThe other Clans will never allow the Stone Rhinos to take Inner Sphere territory.”  Perez said, the Clans had to fight trials for the honour to invade the Inner Sphere, the Stone Rhinos had done nothing.

   â€œNeg, they will not allow you to enter the Inner Sphere as Stone Rhino flagged units.  However we could offer you a chance to fight under Star Adder colours” he noticed Perez begin to raise, he had no wish for his Clan to become the Star Adder’s indentured slaves.  “Khan Thomas, you would be under Contract not under Star Adder control.  My suggestion would be for the Stone Rhinos to take over the Star Adder’s Periphery Holdings maintaining our supply lines and freeing up Star Adder forces for Inner Sphere work.”

   â€œThe Periphery colonies would be a prize worth our notice, however, I want something else.”  Perez said, Cassius smiled at least the Stone Rhino Khan was open to the idea.

   â€œWhat did you have in mind?”

   â€œThe Stone Rhinos will take your Periphery Colonies and hold them from all aggressor, maintaining your supply lines.  However certain Stone Rhino units under contract with the Star Adders will operate in the Inner Sphere, any Inner Sphere territory we win will immediately become Star Adder territory however the Stone Rhino’s will take any bondsmen or material gains from our trials.”  Cassius' smile never left his face, the Khan of the Stone Rhino Clan knew how to negotiate, by offering to fight under the Star Adder flag he would gain his Clan materials they would need to survive the inevitable Smoke Jaguar counter attacks and the Planets captured would benefit the Star Adders in the long run.

   â€œAgreed, how much forces would you be willing to supply us?”

   â€œOur entire Touman, Seventeen Ground Clusters and two WarShips.”  Thomas said, Cassius was shocked, the Stone Rhinos held territory on Strana Mechty and Dagda in the Homeworlds.

   â€œWhat about your Homeworlds Territory?”

   â€œWe can hold our territory at home and away well enough, you are unlikely to need all of our forces at once.”

   â€œPerhaps I can help with that, three weeks ago we discovered three ancient Essex Mk I-class Destroyers in a Brian Cache on the fringes of the Pentagon worlds.  The vessels are obsolete by Clan standards however your Clan could have them to shore up your forces, the Smoke Jaguars still have several WarShips that could cause you serious damage.”

   â€œVery generous, Cassius.  A chance to strike at the Smoke Jaguars is a worthwhile one, I agree.  When do we begin?”

   â€œSoon, very soon.”

Fairview (Avatar-class Cruiser)
Draconis Combine Periphery near Columbus Base
18th December 3058

    En Route to the Nova Cat’s Den (Tortuga Dominions) the trading Star of Nova Cat WarShips, a Nova Cat Lola-III-class Destroyer and four Merchant Carrack-class Transport vessels,  found two ComStar vessels sitting near the nadir point, one was an Essex-class Destroyer the other a Faslane-class Repair/Yardship.  The Essex began moving to attack however when the three newly acquired Nova Cat Avatar-class Cruisers arrived the ComGuards began charging their Jump Drives attempting to escape alongside the Faslane.  Both Essex and Faslane vessels quickly aborted their jumps as the Nova Cat WarShips closed within their jump radius and ordered them to stand-down.  A WarShip attempting to jump while in close proximity to other vessels normally ended in only one way, the destruction of both vessels, the manoeuvre was known as a Crazy-Jane because only the craziest, or desperate, commanders ordered it on their crews most of the time the commander would just order the escaping vessel‘s destruction but obviously the Nova Cat commander wanted them alive.

   Instead of boarding the vessels however the Nova Cat flotilla commander Star Admiral Fredrick Bavros opened up the comm. system and asked to speak to the ComGuard commander.  “ComGuard commander, we do not wish your destruction.  I want to talk to someone I can negotiate with over your release.”  He said from the led Nova Cat vessel there was several minutes of dead silence then the comm. channel crackle with the ComGuard reply.

   â€œWho do you want to talk to and why?”  a female voice asked, communication trace signals pointed to the Essex.

   â€œI want to talk to someone willing to talk to a clansmen instead of a shoot first approach, perhaps Precentor Padraig O’Bhaoil of Columbus Base” he noticed the ComGuard commander’s surprise “yes, we know all about the base and if we have to we will start looking for it however we would prefer a negotiation for the ceasing of hostilities between the Nova Cats and ComStar.”

   â€œWe will need to leave the system to get within communications range of a ComStar base.”

   â€œNo need, we have on-board HPGs on our vessels.  Give us communication frequencies and locations of receivers and we will put you in communication.”

   â€œThose are classified” another voice said.

   â€œSomeone from your vessel is welcome aboard our vessel” Bavros said calling their bluff, the ComStar vessels were not getting out of here without paying the Nova Cats something in return, within an hour a ComGuard officer was aboard the Nova Cat WarShip.
 
Main Briefing room, Main Gravity Deck
CSWS Invisible Truth (Cameron-class Battle-cruiser)
New Avalon System, Federated Suns
20th December 3058

   When he had come to the New Avalon system to talk to Victor Steiner-Davion, as commander of the new Star League Defence Force, Anastasius Focht had thought that he would be able to concentrate on operations against Clan Smoke Jaguar, instead the ComStar Flagship Invisible Truth had received word from ComGuard units in the Periphery and things had changed.

   Focht sat in the Invisible Truth’s largest briefing room looking at what was a nightmarish scenario a Clan, the Nova Cats, had cornered two ComStar vessels in the periphery and was holding them ransom.  Although Focht knew it could be worse, the Clanners could have destroyed the vessel outright.  The Nova Cats were an unknown, none of their forces had been deployed in the Inner Sphere although Focht had encountered their Khans on the Wolf Flagship, the Dire Wolf, in 3050.  Then Khans Severn Lervoux and Lucian Carns had been two of the quietest leaders of the Clans abstaining from many votes but opposing the Smoke Jaguars at ever opportunity.  Looking through the report it placed eight Nova Cat capital ships just beyond the Draconis Combine periphery and less than two jumps from Columbia Base, ComStar’s deep space base and the base of all ComStar Explorer Corps operations.

   The Invisible Truth was linked to the ComStar HPG network of the Federated Suns which in turn was linked to the Draconis Combine’s network and the Columbus Base as well as four other ComGuard WarShips, it was costing billions to maintain the link but it allowed Focht and Columbus base commander Precentor Padraig O’Bhaoil to speak in person.  “What is your thoughts on the Nova Cat problem?”

   â€œThe commander of the Deathblow couldn’t give us details on the exact make up of the Nova Cat force but I would guess that there are at least two major vessels and several cargo vessels.”  Padraig O’Bhaoil said, he was a seasoned Explorer Officer but he was not a naval officer, a WarShip Commander and Anastasius didn’t want another opinion.

   â€œPrecentor, we are planning operations against the Smoke Jaguars, the last thing we need is trouble with another Clan.  The Nova Cats are looking for an exit from hostilities, do you think we can come to a compromise with them?”

   â€œMaybe, it depends on what they bring to the table… all I would be looking for is safe return of the Deathblow and the Rosslare and their crews, they are my responsibility, they are Explorer Corps.”

   â€œI understand Precentor, however if we need to open a dialogue with the Cats, we cannot afford another Clan invading the Inner Sphere, not now.”

   â€œYes, Precentor Martial, I shall take the Avenging Sword and enter the system, a single WarShip should not threaten the Nova Cats and show that ComStar can compete on an equal level with the Clans if necessary.”  O’Bhaoil said, the Avenging Sword was an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser and formerly a Star League vessel, hopefully the Clans would respect that..

   â€œGood Luck Precentor” Anastasius said before the link died, now all he could do was wait and pray the Nova Cats did not turn hostile, if they did this could cost the ComGuards and the Explorer Corps a lot in personnel and resources.

Command Bridge
Fairview (Avatar-class Cruiser)
Draconis Combine Periphery near Columbus Base
22nd December 3058

   Standing on the bridge of the Fairview Star Admiral Fredrick Bavros watched as an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser entered the system painted in ComStar colours, a plain white.  “Which vessel is that?”  Fredrick asked, the Aegis was an old class but so was the Avatar, both the Nova Cat and ComStar vessels had served previous masters under the Star League Defence Force flag, the Fairview still held that name and Fredrick wondered what vessel the ComGuards had dragged up for this little meeting.

   â€œIt is the SLS Pride of New Earth” the sensor operator said, ever WarShip had their telltale signs that gave them away to other WarShips, especially ships that had been around in the deep for a long period.

   â€œHail them under that name, weapons if they turn a weapon towards us they are dead, Quiaff?”  Fredrick said quietly, the weapons officer nodded “copy to both other cruisers, this order includes the Essex and that other vessel.”

   â€œSir, they have answered and are sending over a shuttle to negotiate.”

   â€œWhat have the Stavag ComGuard’s called her?”

   â€œThe Avenging Sword, sir”

   â€œThe Avenging Sword… inform their shuttle to dock at airlock sixteen have an Elemental point meet them there and escort them to Hall Four.  Station the rest of the Elementals in adjacent corridors.”  Bavros said quietly, he had heard of the Inner Sphere’s use and embracing of back stabbing tactics and dishonourable bombings as far as he knew ComStar had never resorted to such tactics but one could never be so sure.

   An hour later the shuttle had docked and the Fairview, the ComStar delegation was escorted through the Nova Cat WarShip into an expansive briefing room inside the Fairview’s main gravity deck.  Fredrick entered through an auxiliary entrance other than the Elementals stationed at each entrance he was the only Nova Cat in the room.  Sitting at the table Fredrick looked over at the three members of the ComStar delegation, two women and a man one of the women wore a Draconis Combine uniform the other plain ComStar togs with a Free Rasalhague Republic dragon on the cuff.  “Welcome aboard the Fairview, I am Star Admiral Fredrick Bavros, commander of this flotilla.”  He said from his end of the table, he made no attempt to approach the ComStar personnel.

   â€œI am Precentor Padraig O’Bhaoil, commander of ComStar’s Columbus Base and of the Periphery Operations of the Explorer Corps.”  The male ComGuard officer said standing “those vessels out there are under my command, my responsibility.  I have been authorised by Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht to negotiate with you.”

   â€œGood, let me be blunt and straight to the point Precentor, we have scanned the WarShips out there and we want the smaller vessel.”

   â€œThe Essex?”  Padraig asked, out of the ComGuard vessels the Essex was the shortest of the vessels if not the lightest, Padraig also prayed they didn‘t want the Faslane-class ship, ComStar only had six of the repair ships and with the Word of Blake in the Terran System the Faslanes would be invaluable.

   â€œNeg, the other vessel, the construction ship.”  Fredrick said smiling, he could see the faces of the ComGuard officers drop.

   â€œWhy would you want such a vessel?” the woman with Draconis Combine uniform said “surely the Clans have repair and construction vessels.”

   â€œWe do, however the Nova Cats control none exclusively and none of the other Clans control mobile vessels such as the one out there” Fredrick said.

   â€œWhat are you willing to part with for the rights to the Rosslare?”  Padraig said regaining his voice.

   â€œSomething you may be interested in” Fredrick said sitting down “out there you probably noticed the three Avatar-class Cruisers with their weapons trained on your vessels.”  Fredrick said rubbing it in just how badly he had the ComStar troops cornered “however what you may not have noticed was the Lola-III and the four Carrack-class Merchants, you see that is why we were out here in the first place searching for possible trading partners.”  He lied “the Carrack Merchant is a modified Military Transport vessel, its naval weapons have been removed to make way for larger cargo bays and more anti-fighter defence weapons.  We would be willing to trade an empty Carrack Merchant for your Rosslare.”

   â€œAn empty under armoured transport for a construction vessel, are you attempting to insult us?  I would rather led my fighters against you” the female ComGuard officer said.

   â€œThen again, a WarShip for a repair ship is a good way to start the negotiations” Padraig said glancing at the female warrior.

   â€œOf course my apologies” she immediately said getting Padraig’s meaning, any fight would be death for the ComGuard personnel.

   â€œI also apologise for my companion’s reaction, however I must also refuse the offer.  If I returned to ComStar without the Rosslare and with only a single Carrack-class vessel I would be stripped of my rank.  ComStar only control six Faslane-class vessels as it is.”

   â€œThe trade fleet is an important part of the Nova Cat Clan, especially considering the recent invasion of the Inner Sphere and the expansion of our trading routes.”  Fredrick had to try and cover the real reason the Nova Cats were here.

   â€œWe have never seen Nova Cat vessels in the Inner Sphere” the female Combine officer said not a shock since no Nova Cat vessel had entered the Inner Sphere.

   â€œThen with respects you have not looked hard enough, our vessels and our crews work closely with Clan Diamond Shark forces.  If I remember correctly no Nova Cat vessel has engaged an Inner Sphere vessel however.”  Fredrick said “I can offer you two Carrack Merchants empty of cargo and without their DropShips.”  He said losing two Merchants would be a pain however if the ComGuards refused and went for a fight he could loose one of the newly acquired Avatars of even all the Merchants if the ComGuards attacked the non-combatants.  Also in the long run it was better for the Nova Cats if they remained on good terms with the ComGuards.

   â€œTwo Carrack Merchants…” the Combine officer whispered Fredrick could see he was getting somewhere.

   â€œAllow me to put it one other way we would like good terms with ComStar, however, we would also like the Rosslare.  You will agree to these terms or in one hour the Merchants will leave and we will destroy the Avenging Sword and the Essex and take the Rosslare anyway we have to.  Then because of the trouble you have caused we will look for Columbus Base and destroy it and every ComGuard there, then in the future we will destroy every ComStar vessel without restraint, you will be united like mercenary or pirate dezgra (dishonoured).”

   â€œMay we contact the Precentor Martial?  Losing a Faslane-class vessel will severely hamper Explorer Corps operations and I need the go ahead from someone more senior.”

   â€œAff, you may contact anyone you wish via that terminal, the ships HPG will transmit your message.  You may only send messages and we will check the message before sending to ensure you have not encoded it with a call for reinforcements.”

   â€œAgreeable” Padraig said, a call for help could be sent in many ways and if he thought the Precentor-Martial would send more ships he would have used the Avenging Sword’s own HPG, vessels with the Merchant‘s cargo capacities could be useful.  Following four hours and over two dozen messages back and fore between the Fairview and Precentor-Martial Focht the decision was made and the ComGuards began emptying the Rosslare of extra cargo and the Nova Cats began emptying both Carrack Merchants before the exchange.

Into the next year

3059

Command Room
Columbus Base, Deep Periphery
3rd January 3059

   The tracker aboard the Rosslare had finally began it transmissions, the vessel’s jump-drive had obviously been offline for a couple of days before the Nova Cat’s had taken it to the final destination.  Precentor Padraig O’Bhaoil had expected to be able to give the Precentor-Martial information on a Nova Cat world in the Clan Homeworlds, instead they had the location of a system in the deep periphery near the Tortuga Dominions!

   What were the Nova Cats doing there, so close to a bandit kingdom and below the Tukayyid Truce line?  Transmitting the data Padraig imagined that the Precentor-Martial would have even more trouble believing the data than Padraig had, and he was the one who supervised the transmitter’s installation and programming the technology didn’t lie.  The Nova Cats were in the Tortuga Dominions, ready to strike the backs of the Federated Suns, the Inner Sphere had not faced such a grave threat since the initial Clan Invasion.

Davion Royal Retreat
New Avalon, Davion Mountains
Crucis March, Federated Suns
5th January 3059

   A day before the Righteous Fury, a ComStar registered Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, had arrived in the New Avalon system via a pirate point and a Fortress-class Assault Ship had begun burning towards the planet.  The ComStar WarShip broadcast that Precentor-Martial Anastasius Focht was on the DropShip and he desperately required to speak to Commanding-General Victor Steiner-Davion, the fact they had called for Victor as Commanding-General made it clear that it was a matter for the Star League and not just the Federated Suns, something that would effect the entire Inner Sphere in time or right now when only time would tell.

   Two Davion Avenger-class Assault DropShips had met the Fortress just outside New Avalon’s gravity well and they had escorted the ComStar vessel to a secluded landing zone in the Davion Mountains.  From there a heavily armed convoy escorted by elements of the Elite First Davion Royal Guards Regimental Combat Team (RCT) had escorted Focht and his aides to a small cottage situated in a small clearing in the mountains. A Federated Suns RCT was one of the most effective formations in the entire Inner Sphere it combined, one Mech Regiment, up to twelve conventional regiments and aerospace support all permanently assigned together to form an effective combined-arms assault force capable of taking on a variety of different tasks.  The First Davion was one of the most Elite in the entire Federated Suns and was the most prestigious as it was responsible for the defence of the Davion Royal Palace, the Fox’s Den and New Avalon on a near permanent basis.

   Victor sat with several members of the Federated Suns High Command on the porch even though they were miles from the Davion High Command‘s normal seat of power deep within the Fox‘s Den under the Davion Mountain Range they could still determine every move the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns (AFFS) made from here, this innocent looking cabin.  All the Federated Suns officials moved off when Focht approached “Precentor-Martial, ComStar has been warned about entering the New Avalon system in a WarShip, we may not field vessels of such mass or firepower however we have weapons capable of brining them down.”  Victor said raising from his chair and walking to meet Focht several metres from the cottage.

   â€œMy apologies Victor, however, ComStar has come into worrying information that you need to be made aware of immediately.”  Focht said Victor had met Focht several times and as a strategist and a leader of combat troops he respected him so he ignored the Precentor-Martial’s use of Victor’s first name, technically Focht should have used one of Victor’s titles.  There was also some other ties between Focht and Victor however those were not for public discussion, perhaps in their memoirs when the other was dead.

   â€œWhat information?”  Victor asked, he knew Focht would not come here, in such grand fashion, without good reason.

   â€œWe believe that one or more Clans have breached the Tukayyid Truce line and are ready to strike deeper into the Inner Sphere than anyone could have ever imagined.”

   â€œWhere are they?  Have they breached the Lyran, Rasalhague or Combine borders?”  Victor asked naming the three nations with Clan borders.

   â€œNone of those, or any other state.”  Victor gave Focht a confused/explain yourself look.  “In mid-December Clan Nova Cat cornered two ComGuard vessels in the periphery, however, they did not strike.  Instead the Nova Cat commander negotiated a trade for one of the ComStar vessels for two of their merchant vessels, he said the Nova Cats wished not to make enemies of the Inner Sphere.”

   â€œThis is a good thing, at least some of the Clans are willing to negotiate and work with us instead of attempting to destroy us outright.”  Victor said, at least ComStar had met such people he had not been so lucky.

   â€œTrue we thought the same, however, we bugged the vessel we traded with the Clansmen.”  Victor’s face darkened ComStar’s action could endanger the peace they had brokered “we thought it could led us to another Clan Homeworld.  The results were not promising however.”

   â€œWhere did the vessel turn up?”

   â€œA jump, perhaps two, outside the Tortuga Dominions.”

   â€œTortuga” Victor whispered thinking of the Fox’s Teeth company en route to that very bandit kingdom.

   â€œYes, you can now understand our rush to enter the New Avalon system” Victor nodded “if the Nova Cat force there is a recon force for the rest of the clan then we have nothing to worry about however if they are an assault, or invasion force your nation could be in grave danger.  Also if the Nova Cats are this far around the Inner Sphere it could mean that there are Clan colonies in the deep Rimward Periphery that we know nothing about.”

   â€œCould be, however, we have no concrete information Precentor-Martial.  The Star League Council has planned to move against the Smoke Jaguars and we know where their Homeworld is.  I have already deployed a unit to Tortuga.” It was Focht’s turn to look confused “Tortuga has been quiet we wanted to know what was going on.  They should arrive on Tortuga posing as a Pirate force wanting to join the Fusiliers in a couple of days, perhaps a week.  For now we will continue to prepare against the Smoke Jaguars, however I will move certain forces to protect our Periphery borders as well.  If the Nova Cats make their move against us then we will respond but for now they have struck no Inner Sphere world, harmed no Star League citizens the Smoke Jaguars annihilated an entire city from orbit, they are a greater threat.  Please keep the information on the Nova Cats a closely guarded secret, I do not want to panic the Federated Suns population with such information.”

   â€œOf course, we will all monitor the situation and pray the Nova Cats do not share their brethren’s wishes to see us all destroyed.”  Focht had spent time with the Clans before the Battle of Tukayyid, he knew that not all the Clans shared the so-called Crusader bent of the Invading Clans hopefully the quiet Nova Cat Clan was not one of the more aggressive Clans.

   Victor and Focht spoke for more than an hour then the ComStar Precentor-Martial left returning to the Righteous Fury before that vessel left the New Avalon system.  Victor returned to his High Command meeting, just before they broke up he turned to his cousin Marshal Jackson Davion “Jackson, I would like you to travel to Hadrian’s Command and have them step up the reactivation process on their charges.”

   â€œWhy what has happened?”  Jackson asked, normally Victor would not explain such an extreme action but, Jackson was family so he answered.

   â€œThere is a Clan in the Periphery near Tortuga, we could need a little extra firepower, in the next couple of months, take all the resources you need just get the job done Marshal.”

   â€œOf course, sire” within an hour Jackson had contacted the Department of Military Intelligence (DMI), the same command of the Rabid Fox, and within two hours he was aboard a MI3 (Electronic Information Gathering) DropShip on his way to the Federated Suns most secret base in the entire Federated Suns.

Hall of the Khans
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
8th January 3059

   In everyone’s lives there were firsts some you enjoyed and they enhanced your lives, others could spell the end of your life if they went wrong.  Standing up in front of his fellow Khans Thomas Perez looked around the room, he had faced them before however he had been a Star Colonel then and now he was a Khan, a peer, at least that was the theory.  The fellow Khans looked back at him judging his ever movement and rating every word.  “My fellow Khans, on 26th December on the occupied Periphery Colony of Gwithian Stone Rhino forces took over stewardship of this world, working under a contract with Clan Star Adder…”

   â€œKhan Perez, I know you are knew at this but the Grand Council does not have to be called every time your Clan makes a deal with another.”  ilKhan Lincoln Osis said, there was a couple of discreet laughing in the room mostly from the Smoke Jaguar saKhan.  The Smoke Jaguars would do everything to discredit the Stone Rhinos.

   â€œilKhan, I was not bringing this contract to your attention or any of the other Khans as I was confident that your Watch and the other Clan’s Watch Agencies knew this already, I was just setting the scene for the facts.”  Thomas said now there was a little more laughter this time from saKhan Karl Devalis of the Nova Cats and the Wolf Khan Vlad Ward, Thomas made a note that once again the Khan of the Nova Cat Clan was not present.  “As I was saying Clan Star Adder vacated Gwithian the Stone Rhinos moved to secure the planet.  Almost immediately the Twenty-eighth’s Assault Cluster’s commander Star Colonel was assaulted by two Mechs and killed, these Mechs made no official Batchall or challenge.”

   â€œIt is a dangerous area of space, Jade Falcon garrison forces are attacked on a regular basis, these people have no respect for our superior warriors, technology or our ways of combat.”  Khan Marthe Pryde, leader of Clan Jade Falcon, said her Clan controlled a sizable portion of the Clan occupied areas of the Inner Sphere.

   â€œWe are well aware of the lawlessness of the region, Khan Jade Falcon, however these Mechs are the reason for my bringing this to your attention.  If I may direct you to the plasma screen” Perez said as a screen lifted up from inside the Stone Rhino desk, the building may be traditional but the technology used by the Khans was state-of-the-art.  The screen split into two sections one showed a running Mech which any warrior in the room could identify as an Inner Sphere Panther, the Mech looked in good condition and was unmarked other than some light damage on the torso and upper left leg.  The other half of the screen was taken up with a Vapour Eagle, this Mech was similarly in good condition.  “These are the Mechs that assaulted and killed our officer.”  Perez noticed saKhan Brandon Howell of Clan Smoke Jaguar raise and whisper something in the ilKhan’s ear, the ilKhan looked at the saKhan for a moment then addressed the Khans.

   â€œI have just been informed that these Mechs assaulted a Smoke Jaguar research and development station in mid-November of last year.”

   â€œWhy was this council not informed?” Khan Cassius N’Buta asked, the ilKhan stared angrily at Howell for a moment then turned back to the Khans.

   â€œThese forces destroyed the base and took everything, we assumed it was the Dark Caste and have been attempting to track down the culprits, we would have informed this council of their existence then.”

   â€œWe were able to destroy the Vapour Eagle.”

   â€œGood for you, shame you could not bring down the Inner Sphere Panther too.” Khan Marthe Pryde said angrily.

   â€œThat Mech has been modified, it was faster than a standard Panther and carries heavier weaponry.  However this is no the gem of the information we received.”  Perez said smiling looking at the Clan Burrock Khans “when we analysed the Vapour Eagle’s wreckage we found Clan Burrock insignia on the Mech’s armour and inside the Mech’s cockpit.  I would like an explanation.”

   â€œThis Mech was obviously stolen from our Clan, we would never have dealings with the Dark Caste.”  the Burrock Khan said, there was a murmuring around the room “and if you make any such allegations Khan Stone Rhino, you will face me in a Trial of Grievance.”

   â€œI have no evidence, I only produced this to find out if such a Mech was missing or if you had seen these units before.”

   â€œWe have not, and I have no available knowledge of a missing Vapour Eagle, if we were to recess for a few hours I could find this information.”

   â€œHardly a reason to involve us all, Khan Burrock you will bring this information to Clan Stone Rhino Khan, if this is all I have a journey to the Inner Sphere to look forward to and will take my leave.”  Khan Vlad Ward said, the Khans of the Invading Clans spent most of their times travelling between the Homeworlds and the Inner Sphere, a six month trip each way.

   â€œIt is this council is over, safe journey to the Inner Sphere Khan Ward” Kael Pershaw the council Loremaster said, the Khans began shuffling out.  Khan Peres smiled, the presentation meeting had not gone too badly.

Khan Thomas Perez Office
Clan Stone Rhino Hall, Strana Mechty
Clan Homeworlds, Kerensky Cluster
11th January 3059

   Thomas Perez had waited for three days for information from Clan Burrock but nothing had arrived, maybe the Burrocks thought the Stone Rhinos were too small to be recognised, if they tried this with the Wolves or Jade Falcons they would find themselves facing a Trial of Grievance, or Absorption by the larger Clan.  Now Perez was forced to make a choice martial his forces against the Burrocks and risk stretching his Clan too thin, or ignore the Burrock threat and show the Clans the Stone Rhinos were just playing at being Clan warriors.  SaKhan Kirsten Kotare entered the room silently and sat opposite him, she had been a member of the Jaguars once like him and had been one of the first to flow to his banner, however Kirsten was also a Crusader and often advocated striking the Inner Sphere first and the other Clans a far second.  “The Burrocks still have not answered our calls for information on the Dark Caste attacks.”

   â€œDid you expect them too?  I said we should challenge them when they did not answer straight away, but you wavered…”

   â€œAre you challenging me Kirsten?”  Thomas asked immediately recognising her tone and the direction the conversation was going.

   â€œNeg, however I believe that perhaps we should take another route in dealing with the Burrock threat.”

   â€œWhat type of other route is there?  We ignore them or we call them out for a trial.”

   â€œOr we use the Watch…”  She said

   â€œWe have no Watch.”

   â€œNot true, my Khan” Kirsten said quietly “two months ago I and Loremaster Warren Corbett discussed the fact we had not formed a Watch and we chose to designate a Cluster as a Watch unit, the Twelfth Black Lancer Cluster.”

   â€œI did wonder why the unit made such a name change, and why they did so when you were there.  Why was I not informed Kirsten Kotare?”

   â€œIt was a minor change in designation, the Cluster’s duties have not changed thus far, although we have plans to give them further training we have not yet begun.”

   â€œThen why would we use them, if they are untrained in Watch matters then they will not be much use.”

   â€œI was thinking of using them as a regular unit with a surprise in the tail.”

   â€œExplain”

   â€œThe Star Adders I believe have a small trading outpost on Tathis, we ask them if we can drop the unit onto Tathis with one of their trading expeditions.”

   â€œThe Star Adders will want something in return…”

   â€œWe offer them a quarter of the Tathis Mech production for the next year, they will settle for a third, we can afford to loose that much equipment.”

   â€œTrue, and another production plant would be helpful especially with the Stone Rhino program almost ready for production.”

   â€œAlmost ready?”  Kirsten asked surprised Project Stone Rhino had only been started following the Stone Rhino’s independence from the Smoke Jaguars, the program aimed to deliver a totem Mech for their Clan, to give their warriors something to be proud about and rally behind, within a year.

   â€œAff, the designers say that the tests have gone well and they are ready for the prototype stage.  Perhaps the Dark Caste/Burrock attacks were meant to be.”

   â€œYou are sounding more Nova Cat every day” Kirsten said raising “I will make arrangements for the Twelfth Black Lancer to move out.”  She said before he could answer considering they were both former Smoke Jaguars being compared to one of the Smoke Jaguars main rivals was not a nice thing to say despite the Stone Rhino’s severing of the ties between the two Clans.

Burrock Controlled Territory
Mech Production Facility, Tathis
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Space
17th January 3059

   The Star Adders had agreed to shuttle the Twelfth Black Lancer Cluster to Tathis with their next trading convoy which left a couple of days later.  Six days later they had arrived on Tathis and the Stone Rhino’s were ready, saKhan Kirsten Kotare had decided that she would include her command star as part of the Cluster.  Walking her one hundred ton Dire Wolf forward Kirsten watched as her Star line up on her left, glancing right she noticed Star Colonel Jessica and her command star and behind them there were two more trinaries of Clan Stone Rhino’s troops.

   â€œClan Star Adder force this is Star Colonel Drake of Clan Burrock, please explain why you are in our territory.”  A voice asked over the comm. as they approached, of course they were Star Adders Kirsten thought, why would the dezgra Burrocks think anything less.  “Star Adders please respond… all forces we have three under strength Trinaries inbound on our western approaches, thought to be Star Adders prepare for hostilities.”

   â€œThis is saKhan Kirsten Kotare of Clan Stone Rhino, we are here to declare a Trial of Possession for the BattleMech facility and the nearby enclave in response to Clan Burrock’s dealings with the Dark Caste and the dishonourable attack on the Gwithian Colony.  My first bid for the Batchall is two Trinaries and two stars, all troops are rated as elite, this is my entire force and I am willing to send you are combat information, respond.”  Kirsten said as the Burrocks began to assemble, they might as well know who their executioners were.

   â€œsaKhan Kotare, Clan Stone Rhino?  What are you doing here?  Why do you sully the Burrock name by linking us to the Dark Caste?”

   â€œI have no wish to talk Star Colonel Drake, I want your defending force or should we just count your entire force as a legitimate target?”  Kirsten asked as the Stone Rhinos fanned out in a battle-line, they were all ready for a fight.

   â€œMy forces are three trinaries of Mechs and Battle Armour, two Stars of Combat Vehicles and a single star of conventional infantry.  I am willing to transmit their codex information” Drake eventually said, a Warrior’s Codex was a record of his or her history as a warrior, they included every fight they had been in and the result of the battle as well as a sample of the warrior’s DNA and Bloodhouse.

   â€œTransmit to my Mech.”  Kirsten said slowing her Mech’s speed, auxiliary monitors were filled with information on the Burrock defenders, they were green to regular at best typical garrison troops.  Kirsten opened a private comm. channel to Star Colonel Jessica giving her the data as well “Jessica, your bid including my Star?”  She asked giving Jessica the right to decide which of her warriors would fight today.

   â€œA single Trinary plus your Star and my own.”  She said Kirsten looked at the data again and at the update Jessica had sent her.

   â€œWe bid a single Trinary plus two Stars.”  Kirsten said activating her general comm. system.  “I will send you an update on which warriors will fight.”

   â€œWe bid away our conventional infantry and vehicles.”  The Burrock commander said, it was traditional for Clan commanders to find the smallest amount of troops he or she could defend with against an opposing force, the smallest force brought the biggest honour however if they lost they were seen as reckless and dangerous to the Clan.

   â€œI will deploy my Trinary as a Binary with both Stars remaining intact, overall two binaries of Stone Rhinos remain.”  Kirsten said reviewing the data.

   â€œWe will deploy one of our Trinaries as a single Star and the other two at full strength.”  Drake said, he was bidding away the most green rated troops of his command protecting them from the Stone Rhinos assault.  The Burrocks still outnumbered the Stone Rhinos however Kirsten felt confident she could take them with the troops she had.

   â€œWhat do you think Jessica?”  Kirsten asked opening a comm. to the Star Colonel again.

   â€œI would not want to deprive any more of my people of combat, the Burrocks have bid away their most green troops, assuming they fight using Zellbrigen  it should be a fair fight.” The Star Colonel said Zellbrigen was the Clan traditional duelling rules of one-on-one combat, one MechWarrior against another in honourable combat, for Battle Armour five troopers of a point counted as one unit.

   â€œAgreed” Kirsten said swapping back to general comm. “Done, Burrock Commander select a battlefield for this trial.”

   â€œYou are standing on a good enough spot saKhan Kotare, we will meet you and assemble one kilometre from your present location.”

   â€œAgreed, Seyla” she said ending the Batchall.

   â€œSeyla” Drake said in response.  Kirsten and Jessica separated out the forces that would fight in the battle, those warriors not included in the Trial would stand ready, Clan Trial Rules allowed a commander to recall his last bid into battle if he was desperate for the victory in Kirsten’s case that would be another full star of warriors.  The others would form a perimeter ensuring no-one interfered in combat.

   The two Clans forces arranged opposite each other Kirsten stepped forward and opened the comm. “I saKhan Kirsten Kotare of Clan Stone Rhino declare this Trial of Possession for the Tathis BattleMech facility and the Clan Burrock enclave to the south-east.  I bring two Binaries of troops to this battle.”

   â€œI Star Colonel Drake defend this facility, I bring two Trinaries and a single Binary of troops to this battle.”

   â€œSeyla” she said ending the Ritual of Battle.

   â€œSeyla” Drake said then after a moments pause a ninety ton Supernova charged forward and Drake spoke again “saKhan Kirsten Kotare I declare a Circle of Equals with you, may no other enter.”  As individual challenges and battle calls began to be called out across the battlefield Kirsten answered the Call and the two began to fight.

   The Supernova was a second-line garrison BattleMech most often seen in the Clusters of Clan Nova Cat, its armament included six arm mounted Extended-Range Large Lasers giving it massive long range striking power.  Unfortunately for the Supernova its heat sinks could not dispense that much heat and if the Supernova pilot fired all its weapons at once the assault Mech would overheat and be unable to fight for a short time, on the Battlefield even a short term of being unable to fight were deadly.  Drake was not an idiot, only four of the six lasers lashed out at extreme range two struck Kirsten’s Dire Wolf, striking the left leg meting away nearly a ton-and-a half of armour.  The Dire Wolf was the Clan’s biggest OmniMech and it carried a massive amount of firepower and armour, Kirsten was not worried about the hit.  Instead she stopped her Dire Wolf moving and placed her OmniMech’s legs squarely on the ground, targeting the Supernova she opened fire with the Left Arm weapons pod twin Extended Range PPCs lashed out and tore into the Supernova’s right leg, the Supernova stopped for a moment, obviously Drake had not banked on Kirsten piloting a Dire Wolf using the uncommon B Weapons Configuration.  As Drake’s Supernova began to move again Kirsten punched down on the second joystick trigger, four light Ultra-class Autocannons roared into life above Kirsten’s head, although the weapons did little damage individually they fired fast and together they could cause a lot of damage.  The autocannon shells tore into the Supernova, Kirsten made sure her weapons all struck the exact same point as before tearing into the right leg ripping armour clear exposing the structure.

   Drake returned fire with all six lasers, the damaged they dealt together was devastating, all six struck the Dire Wolf overloading systems all over the Mech, if Kirsten hadn’t been standing still the mighty assault Mech would have likely fallen under such an assault.  Kirsten checked her systems, one of the yet unused left arm pulse lasers was damaged possibly destroyed but otherwise her Mech was still fully operational.  Looking across the battlefield she could see the Supernova was not in such good shape, the Mech had overheated badly with the use of all six lasers, switching to Infer-red (IR) targeting mode she could see the Supernova burned white as it tried to fight back the heat.  “Wrong move” Kirsten whispered, using the time she charged forward taking the Dire Wolf on a run, accelerating up to around fifty-four kilometres per hour, the Mechs to speed.  Just as Drake began to regain control of his Mech she was in range for all her remaining weapons, Kirsten looked at the Supernova for a second then without another thought she triggered all her Dire Wolf’s weapons in a classic ‘Alpha Strike’.

   The left arm paired PPCs and single pulse laser tore into the Supernova’s torso stripping the Mech of two tons of armour.  The Ultra autocannons roared into life tearing armour all over the Burrock Mech as Kirsten ‘walked’ the autocannons over her target.  Finally the only weapon Kirsten had not used roared into life a LB-X class autocannon in the right arm fired, Kirsten had selected solid shot for the oversized shotgun and the shot out the Dire Wolf striking the Supernova’s head, although head-shot strikes were frowned upon she had not meant to strike the Supernova’s head so Kirsten felt no remorse.  The Supernova reeled under the hit but surprisingly it did not fall, instead Drake obviously knocked about by the attack maintained control of the ninety ton machine and kept it on its feet only retreating four of five steps in an effort to maintain balance.  Kirsten cursed as she saw the Warriors’ impressive display and watched as her weapons cycled, the fastest weapons were the single pulse laser and the over shoulder autocannons which she hammered down again.  As the weapons lashed out she noticed the Supernova lift off, the Supernova’s one real advantage over her Mech was its three powerful jump jets.  The Supernova leapt ninety metres left just as Kirsten’s autocannons and pulse laser struck the place the Burrock Mech had been standing.  “Stavag!”  Kirsten screamed twisting her Mech’s torso trying to track the Supernova, as the Dire Wolf’s torso twisted the Supernova fired all six lasers one more time.

   The blast of pure destructive power from the Supernova sent Kirsten’s Dire Wolf reeling, the entire left arm was separated from the Dire Wolf as the mighty OmniMech was sent spiralling to the ground, Kirsten slammed her nose against the control panel as the Dire Wolf hit the ground breaking her nose and covering her in blood, Kirsten screamed, not in pain but pure anger.  Now it was a test of speed, could Kirsten pick her Mech up before the Supernova had cooled?  Kirsten doubted it so instead she rolled the Mech onto its side crushing the right arm’s remaining armour but thankfully not damaging the autocannon there.  Then with every ounce of fight and energy she had left the she slammed down on the Dire Wolf’s weapons triggers, all four Ultra autocannons and the single LB-X-type autocannon fired in unison and to Kirsten’s delight everything hit the location she had planned on hitting.  Lying on its side the Dire Wolf’s weapons were in a direct line to the Supernova’s legs, the five autocannons tore into the already damaged right leg causing it to collapse.  Even if the Supernova hadn’t been overheated the Burrock Mech would have fallen under such damage, but as such the assault Mech fell without control.  Drake was unable to do anything as his Supernova’s head slammed into the ground crushing the cockpit as the weakened armour took ninety tons of Mech landing on it.

   Kirsten picked her Mech up careful not to damaged the right arm autocannon as she used that arm to lever the Mech up, it was possible to pick a Mech up without using the arms but it was time consuming and in the heat of battle no warrior wanted to waste time or show weakness and a prone Mech was a sitting duck literally.  Looking around she could see the battle was going well for the Stone Rhinos, over half of the Burrocks were already down.  Searching she noticed the Stone Rhinos had incurred one casualty however, Star Colonel Jessica’s Mech sat on the ground its head a burning mess.  Kirsten vowed on the death of the Stone Rhino Star Colonel that she would win today however just as she turned her damaged Dire Wolf around ready to challenge one of the Burrocks who had yet to fight an opponent a freak gauss slug from one of the other battles slammed into her cockpit beheading the Dire Wolf and consuming saKhan Kirsten Kotare death was instant and Kirsten had no time to react, just the way war went sometimes.

   A less disciplined command may have broken at this point however the Twelfth Black Lancer Cluster showed why they had been selected by the deceased saKhan to be Watch warriors.  Star Captain Lucian took command of the force, informed the Burrocks he was brining in saKhan Kotare’s last bid and the Stone Rhinos surged forward.  Six hours later the Burrocks surrendered to the remaining Stone Rhinos, six warriors, the remains of the Burrock Garrison Cluster were taken by Star Captain Lucian as Isorla, spoils of war and the Stone Rhinos moved to secure their position and hold over the BattleMech Factory and the nearby Enclave.

Oathmaster Biccon Winters’ Sanctuary
Nova Cat Delta Command Base
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
21st January 3059

   The Nova Cat Enclaves on Barcella were like ghost towns now that the majority of the Clans civilians had left Clan space.  The Enclave on Barcella used to be the Clan’s Homeworld Capital, a hive of activity, now the only activity was Nova Cat Delta Galaxy security teams searching the enclave for stragglers and search teams marking up things the Nova Cats would be taking with them.  Soon the Nova Cats would abandon Barcella as well, their new home beckoned them.  Oathmaster Biccon Winters sat alone in her sanctuary on the top floor of the largest building in the command firebase, about six floors high, she often came here to meditate on the days goings on and wonder what the future entailed for her Clan.  When the recent Trade Convoy had arrived the Merchants had brought her a correspondence from Khan Santin West, he wanted her to join the Clan in the Nova Cat’s Periphery holdings, although he would be returning to the Homeworlds soon he wanted her on the Nova Cats new Capital.

   Biccon had decided soon after the Nova Cats began leaving the Homeworlds that she would not see the Nova Cat’s new home, and she had found a replacement.  There was a knock on the door breaking the silence “Enter, Star Colonel Jal Steiner, and have a seat.”  She said softly, although an Elemental by birth she did not have the deep voice many of the giant infantrymen had.  The doors opened, the light from the doorway flooded into the darkened room, Star Colonel Jal Steiner entered the room and sat down cross-legged across from him.

   â€œI received word that you were looking for me, Oathmaster.”  Jal Steiner said he had not even returned to Xi Galaxy, the message had caught up with him less than an hour after Zane’s Trial of Bloodright and a call from the Oathmaster demanded attention.

   â€œZane was successful.”  She said in a slightly out worldly voice lighting a candle.

   â€œAff” Jal said quietly, he didn’t know what was going on but, considering the Oathmaster’s hushed tone he decided quiet was best.

   â€œGood, I’m sure the Wolves are happy.”  She said, Jal Steiner had known Biccon Winters since his capture from Clan Cloud Cobra almost nine years before, and he had never heard her speak using contractions.  “Jal Steiner, your influence in the Xi Galaxy has been… dramatic.” Xi Galaxy had taken to the Rossei Cloister beliefs which mirrored the Nova Cats mysticism greatly, they had also changed their camouflage to a swirling mess of colour designed to show their devotion to their beliefs and to show an enemy they had no fear of anything.

   â€œAll I did was show them how similar the Nova Cat’s belief in visions and mysticism is similar to that of the Rossei Cloister’s beliefs.”

   â€œThey seem to understand it quite well and have embraced Nova Cat and Rossei beliefs full heartedly, perhaps even more so than any other group in the entire Nova Cat Touman.”  Biccon Winters said quietly.

   â€œWhy am I here, Oathmaster?”  Jal asked he uttered the title with great reverence, the other Clans didn’t have an Oathmaster instead they relied on a Loremaster to guide them and to officiate Clan customs.  The Oathmaster of the Nova Cats was however special over all Loremasters, not only could an Oathmaster change the destiny of the Clan with one vision the Nova Cat post of Oathmaster was the first of its type in any of the Clans.

   â€œI am dying…” she said with but a whisper, it was a statement of fact from the Oathmaster almost as if she knew exactly when.

   â€œDying, how do you…?”  He asked confused.

   â€œHow does anyone?  The Nova Cats are moving on, they have found a new home and are embracing their future.  With this I believe the Nova Cat Clan requires a new Oathmaster…”  Her voice trailed off, the only way a new Oathmaster could be elected was if the present Oathmaster died or if they were defeated in the Grand Melee, an annual tournament that would decide who was the best candidate for the position.

   â€œThe Grand Melee is not for several months” Jal said.

   â€œThere is a rarely used clause, if an Oathmaster dies in office their personal journals are consulted and if a successor is named that person takes over until a Grand Melee can be convened.  I want to name you as my successor.”

   â€œI do not understand, I have not even undertaken a Rite of Vision of my own yet let alone watching over others and helping guide our Clan.”

   â€œThat is another reason I asked you hear tonight, look into the flame and concentrate.”  She said, she would conduct his vision here and now, traditionally warriors chose when to do their visions themselves picking times in their life that suited them.  At Jal’s side was a small vineer pouch, inside were his collected souvenirs of battle, in a Rite of Vision these were sacrificed in an effort to conjure an image or a message that would guide their life’s or even their Clan’s path.  Jal closed his eyes as he drew the pouch forward then opened his eyes looking into the small flame.

   Suddenly without warning the flame expanded to three times its size, Jal could see an image in the flames.  Focusing on the image he saw a dead nova cat, as the image became more focussed Jal noticed that the nova cat’s paws were bloody, but there was no nearby enemies.  This image quickly faded and was replaced with another this one was of a nova cat full of life leaping through a star field, the nova cat landed on an island inhabited by what looked like human skulls the nova cat grabbed the skulls with its teeth and threw them from the island then began shaping the island in its own way, making a home.  As the nova cat began to feel comfortable a dagger appeared behind hit, just before the dagger struck the nova cat turned on the dagger and shredded it before tossing the remains from the island.  Seconds later a long sword appeared and struck the nova cat from a distance, the animal tried to defend itself blunting the sword but was struck down mortally wounded as it crawled away the cat was killed by a group of animals.  This disturbing image disappeared and another appeared this one featured a vigilant nova cat catching the dagger in its jaws but instead of destroying the small weapon the nova cat returned the dagger to the sword and both sides came to an understanding the nova cat bowing to the lowered sword.

   The image disappeared and the flame became smaller returning to normal “what do you make of that?”  Biccon asked Jal noticed that his vineers had mysteriously disappeared, neither of them had moved during the entire encounter.

   â€œThe Nova Cats are in trouble” Jal said quietly “a dagger is nearing the Nova Cat’s Den, and when it strikes the Nova Cats will retaliate by destroying it.  The Sword will then kill the Nova Cat and the Nova Cat’s enemies will destroy us.”

   â€œAnd what does that mean, too you.”  Biccon asked, she had seen the images he had but wanted to know what Jal made of the images himself, she wanted him thinking of anything but the dead nova cat they had seen first.

   â€œThe Nova Cat’s new home is the Nova Cat’s Den” he said, she nodded “the dagger…” he said thinking “the dagger is a small sword, the Federated Suns has been linked with the sword throughout its history.  The Federated Suns has sent a force, or will send, a force to the Nova Cat’s Den.  After they discover our Clan is there they will turn on it and destroy us, our enemies will strike us and kill us?”

   â€œWhat can we do?”

   â€œWe have to capture the force, intact if possible and return it to the Suns.”

   â€œAnd who can do this?”

   â€œThe Khan, I need to speak to the saKhan immediately” he said rushing out the door without another word.  Biccon smiled Jal Steiner would make a good Oathmaster, she extinguished the candle and moved to her bed for the last time.  Her Clan had discovered a new home and they were safe, but she would not see her Clan’s new home or their future, she had seen to it.

Hall of the Khans
Karl Devalis Personnel Quarters
Strana Mechty, Kerensky Cluster
21st January 3059

   â€œWhat the hell?” Karl was awoken by a constant beeping.

   â€œIt has been beeping for the last couple of minutes, I did not know what it was so I left it.”  Sellen said rolling over to look at him, she was a saKhan she should have known what it was but Karl ignored the comment.

   â€œIt is the priority comm.”  he said quietly slipping out of the bed, for once he and Sellen had remained in the bed.  Sellen sat up as he crossed the room and entered the adjacent office.  “Receive” he said the image of Star Colonel Jal Steiner appeared “Star Colonel, it is three o’clock in the morning here, this had better be good.”

   â€œI received a vision” Karl sat down, if any warrior came to him with a vision he would take note when a Star Colonel came to him with a vision at three in the morning he really took note.

   â€œWas the Oathmaster with you, Quiaff?” although any vision was taken seriously only ones officially recognised by the Oathmaster were completely followed, after all some visions changed the path of the entire Clan.

   â€œAff” Jal said “the Oathmaster confirmed it “the Federated Suns are a danger to our home.”  He said Karl glanced over his shoulder and noticed Sellen was not in the bedroom, she had probably gone to the bathroom.  “I need to contact the Khan, our people are in danger from the sword, the only way we can defend our people is to capture the dagger.” Karl was in circles but Jal Steiner seemed intent in his belief, in a Clan of beliefs he would take her serious.

   â€œThe Far Vision is in the Barcella asteroid belt, take a DropShip from Barcella Spaceport under my authority and rendezvous with the Corvette.  The WarShip should be able to reach communication range with the Khan within a couple of jumps.”  The Star Colonel immediately broke the link just as Sellen entered.  “You heard?”

   â€œI heard something about a sword, a dagger and a threat to the Nova Cat people, in other words trouble.”  Sellen said entering the office Karl raised to meet her and they locked in an embrace “you okay?”

   â€œI will be, with some more sleep” he said smiling he noticed the look on her face “let’s get back to bed.”  A small contraction in his voice gave away the tension in his voice, hopefully Jal Steiner had seen something in the Nova Cat’s distant future, at the moment the Khan was en-route to Clan space only the Galaxy Commanders were in the Nova Cat’s Den.  This could be delicate and he hoped his people in the Clan’s new home were ready, the entire clan knew that when the Inner Sphere found out about the Nova Cats in the former Tortuga Dominions that there would be trouble, that day had arrived sooner than they had expected.

Avalon Base, Avalon Valley
Strana Mechty, Clan Homeworlds
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Space
25th January 3059

   Khan Thomas Perez looked out over the Proving Grounds seeded to his Clan by the Ground Council, today they would be the scene of a Stone Rhino’s elevation to the position of saKhan.  Although it was traditional for a Khan to find a saKhan themselves following saKhan Kirsten Kotare’s actions in forming the Watch behind his back Khan Perez had decided to allow any warrior above the rank of Star Colonel, or the equivalent naval rank, to compete for the right to the saKhan post.  Beside him sat Khan Cassius N’Buta who had requested the right to be here, although Thomas had no idea why.  Out in the Proving Ground the Loremaster was beginning the ceremony that would begin the first trial announcing the combatants, auxiliary monitors activated in front of Perez and N’Buta giving them close up images of the action.

   â€œKhan Perez if I may I would like to talk to you about the Burrocks.”

   â€œThey have enraged my Touman Khan N’Buta by killing our saKhan the Stone Rhino’s are calling for blood.”

   â€œI was wondering if you might hold off on attacking the Burrocks.”

   â€œHold off, why?”

   â€œThe Star Adders have acquired information about the Burrocks that will prove their actions involving the Dark Caste.  We will bring this to the council and call for a Trial of Absorption but not yet, if your Clan was to hold off its attacks then I could ensure that the Stone Rhinos were well rewarded for their assistance to the Star Adders.”

   â€œSo the Star Adders would absorb or destroy the Burrocks and the Stone Rhinos would still benefit?  Quiaff” Cassius nodded “I could perhaps sell this to my people, but I would need something in return, another target perhaps.”

   â€œHow about the Smoke Jaguars?  You can target three of their Inner Sphere worlds, if you take them you can hold them until the Star Adders have the resources to take custody.  During this time you can take anything you want from the Smoke Jaguar defenders and the planets themselves.”

   â€œAgreeable, I would like to take a chunk out of the Smoke Jaguars, upload the information and I will move my Clan to deal with the Smoke Jaguars.  Deal with the Burrocks.”  As they had been talking Star Colonel Elizabeth Radick had won her first trial, the first of eight she would win that day and the saKhanship of Clan Stone Rhino.